Chinese earphone export policies and regulations for Canada

I. China’s export policy

Export declaration

HS Code: Earphones are usually classified as 8518.30.00 (wired earphones) or 8518.50.00 (wireless Bluetooth earphones). Exports must be declared according to this code.

Document requirements:

Commercial invoice, packing list, contract (or order).

Export goods declaration form (declare through the “single window”).

If it contains lithium batteries (such as wireless earphones), it is necessary to provide the “Outbound Goods Transport Packaging Performance Inspection Result Sheet” (UN38.3 test report, MSDS, etc.).

Export tax rebate

The tax rebate rate for earphones is usually 13% (subject to China’s latest VAT policy).

Special requirements

If the earphones are Bluetooth/Wi-Fi devices, they must comply with China’s “Radio Management Regulations”, and some frequency bands must apply for a radio model approval certificate (SRRC certification).

2. Canadian import regulations

Tariffs and taxes

Tariff rate: Canada’s most-favored-nation tariff rate for headphones is usually 0% (need to confirm the specific HS code, such as 8518.30/50).

Consumer Service Tax (GST/HST): levied at the tax rate of each Canadian province (usually 5%-15%), paid by the importer.

Product Compliance Certification

ISED Certification: All wireless headphones (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi) must be certified by the Canadian Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED), and the label must contain IC ID.

Safety standards: Comply with the Canadian Electrical Safety Act (CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1 or 62368-1).

Label requirements: Bilingual (English + French) product information, manufacturer/importer address.

Lithium battery requirements

If lithium batteries are included, they must comply with UN38.3 testing, and provide MSDS and shipping declarations (in compliance with TDG regulations).

Other regulations

RoHS: Restrictions on hazardous substances such as lead and mercury (similar to EU RoHS).

Packaging environmental protection requirements: Some provinces (such as British Columbia) have recycling restrictions on packaging materials.

III. Notes

Advantages of trade agreements: China and Canada do not have a free trade agreement, but Canada exempts most electronic products from tariffs.

Importer responsibilities: It is recommended to identify Canadian importers (or use logistics companies as agents) to handle customs clearance and compliance matters.

Dynamic updates: Canada’s ISED and customs policies may change, and official channels (such as the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)) need to be checked regularly.

IV. Recommended process

Confirm the HS code of the headphones and China’s export tax rebate policy.

Complete ISED certification, safety testing and bilingual labeling.

Provide complete documents when declaring exports (additional information is required for lithium batteries).

Submit ISED certificates, commercial invoices, etc. when clearing customs in Canada.

If further assistance is required, it is recommended to consult a professional customs broker or Canadian compliance certification agency.